Harry Brook and Joe Root’s unbeaten tons propel England to series clinching win over Sri Lanka in 3rd ODI

Table of Contents

England produced a dominant all-round performance to defeat Sri Lanka by 53 runs in the third ODI at the R. Premadasa Stadium, sealing the series in emphatic fashion. A breathtaking unbeaten century from Harry Brook and a masterful knock by Joe Root powered England to a formidable total of 357 for 3, which proved beyond Sri Lanka’s reach despite a spirited chase.

Brook was named Player of the Match for his extraordinary display of power-hitting that turned the contest decisively in England’s favour.

After winning the toss and opting to bat, England endured a cautious start, losing Ben Duckett and Rehan Ahmed cheaply. The innings was then rebuilt expertly by Root and Jacob Bethell, who added a valuable 126-run stand to stabilize England.

The turning point came when Brook joined Root at the crease. The duo unleashed an astonishing 191-run partnership for the fourth wicket, completely dismantling the Sri Lankan bowling attack. Root anchored the innings with a sublime unbeaten 111 off 108 balls, showcasing trademark elegance and control.

Brook, however, stole the spotlight with a ferocious unbeaten 136 from just 66 deliveries, striking 11 fours and nine sixes at a staggering strike rate above 200. His assault during the final 15 overs propelled England to 357 for 3, one of their most imposing totals in Asia.

Sri Lanka’s bowlers found little respite on a good batting surface. Wanindu Hasaranga and Jeffrey Vandersay were taken apart, conceding 76 runs in their quota of 10 overs. Only Dunith Wellalage managed to keep things relatively tight, but the lack of wickets allowed England’s batters to score runs freely.

Chasing 358, Sri Lanka began positively with Pathum Nissanka racing to 50 at a brisk pace. Contributions from Kusal Mendis and Kamil Mishara kept Sri Lanka in touch during the early overs, but regular wickets halted momentum.

Captain Charith Asalanka struggled to convert his start, while middle-order partnerships failed to gain traction. Despite a brilliant century from Pavan Rathnayake (121 off 115), the required rate continued to climb.

Sri Lanka were eventually bowled out for 304 in 46.4 overs, falling short despite a fighting display.

Also READ: SL vs ENG – Fans erupt as Joe Root’s 20th ODI century lights up R. Premadasa Stadium in the series decider

England’s bowlers shared the workload efficiently. Jamie Overton struck early, while Adil Rashid provided breakthroughs in the middle overs.

Support also came from Will Jacks and Liam Dawson, who picked up timely wickets to ensure Sri Lanka never fully threatened England’s advantage.

England won the ODI series decider by 53 runs https://t.co/OTrZyVPwoJ#cricket #SLvENG #3rdODI

— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) January 27, 2026

Also READ: Not Abhishek Sharma! Dale Steyn predicts leading run-scorer for T20 World Cup 2026